UBB.threads Forums General Interest Restoration, Conservation, and Maintenance Forum Crash Helmet Repair

Picked this Crash Helmet up some time ago. The Vet had it stored in a file cabinet with something on top of it. As a result, the visor portion is curved up. Can this be fixed? It's not that brittle, and otherise in great shape.

Hello Scott, given the condition of the helmet, which appears to be excellent, I would think long and hard before attempting any kind of re-shaping of the visor. It certainly is'nt in "as-issued" condition, however it's not grossly deformed either. I assume it's leather? If it bothers you that much, I would try to find a haberdasher and/or leather expert who is experienced in such restoration and consult him. Better to be safe than sorry with such a nice artifact! Perhaps some of our members have had more experience with this type of situation. I have an idea but I would only try it with a "beat-up" relic! Hope this helps! Regards, Leipzig

Nice looking crash helmet. I agree with Leipzig. What stand are you using? I'd like to get a stand for the one I have.

Thanks Roger,
I have had it for a while and have not messed with it for the reasons that you mention. Another forum member suggested to get some leather conditioner to soften it and then gradualy and gently reshape it little by little.
I have also read on WWI helmet sites ( Basicaly the same materials as this ) to use the same products that you use on shoes - including shoe polish on a rough looking piece.
It is just leather when you get down to it, but it's also 70 years old or so.
Still not sure if I am willing to mess with it or not.

Raymond - The stand is from Skipper Greenwade. He is a moderator on the WAF and makes fantastic Dagger & Head Gear Displays. This display supports the Hat correctly so as to preserve the shape and liner. Here is his website www.skippergreenwade.com

Thanks Scott. I've seen Skipper's work at several shows at it's very impressive. I'll be ordering one soon.

If only the Vet I purchased this Crash Helmet from had used one, this thread would never have been started!

The conditioner idea sounds fine IMO.Use it most from the inner side that is more porous.I think that it have to be "guided" for quite some time to the proper shape by a former or something, after being shoftened so it can keep the shape.Anyhow be shure the condition of the leather allows such treatment, something we cannot understand by pics.